Update from Cllr Victor Abbott

Last fortnight at South Hams

In the South Hams, the main reaction to Covid-19 has been the public pulling together, and the self-help groups set up in the Parishes and Towns. There is clear gratitude from all Councillors for the support given to others.

In the Council, staff were re-deployed to give local support, to act as a point of contact, and to channel taxes back from central government into the South Hams. Now, over the last 2 weeks, the District Council held 5 workshops, with ideas to help the South Hams, "Build Back Better", and especially for using the Green Economy. These are also steps towards a revised budget.

Liberal Democrat Councillors contributed to these discussions, presenting arguments to support business, the environment, and residents. Keith Baldry, Executive Member and Liberal Democrat Councillor (for Newton and Yealmpton), led the discussion on Recovery and Redesign.

It is interesting that 330,000 miles have been saved as a consequence of working over the Internet. At least some of the changes to how we work will continue after the pandemic ends. We hope to discuss with businesses what they want from the Council and that the local goodwill continues to support the vulnerable.